Nurungukal...contd...

                   I reached 9^th standard. I knew that I was growing. The signs of adolescence were slowly establishing in me. Both physically and mentally. I felt new expressions in my behaviour, tastes  and relationships. A shift towards the finer aspects of the objects I came across. My dreams became more realistic and  close to what I craved for. That forced me to go in search of myths and fantasy.  There was a change in the games  we selected . I found a place in the school badminton and football teams. Kho kho was my another favourite.They helped to keep my body more agile and robust. When I managed to win a running race I reached new heights of joy. There was a cumulative effect in such achievements which I felt in the glances from others.

                   The social barriers almost prohibited us to mingle very closely with the opposite sex. But that did not deter us from making unintentional passes. We created many such occasions.  Under the cover of bushes or in the dark corridors we found expressions of our infatuation.

                   Father started delegating me responsible jobs in agriculture. Direct  involvement  in paddy cultivation operations was my passion. Along with the labourers I used to plough, rake etc. We had a cow . I learn ed the basics of dairying  which I now practise as President of a co-op. Milk society.  I am sure that such valuable exposure with nature has enriched my sense of conservation. But unfortunately I could not pass on this experience to my children. Now I believe that this shift in bringing up is one of  the main causes for a dwindling agrarian economy and biodiversity. Let us try to rectify it from now on.